KORPAN – Goldie Grace (nee Hunter)

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our dear mother, grandmother, and sister, Goldie Grace Korpan on Saturday, August 21, 2010 at the age of 85 years.

Goldie was born and spent her early years in Mortlach, Saskatchewan. She received her registered nurse’s training at the Winnipeg General Hospital and graduated in 1947. She nursed in hospitals in Georgia, Colorado, Vancouver and Dauphin before marrying Walter (Wally) Korpan in 1951.

Wally was her life partner and constant companion. Together they made their homes in Estevan, Willow Bunch, Ashern, Dominion City, Flin Flon and Brandon as Wally’s career with CIBC progressed. Wally devoted much of his life to community service and Goldie was always there – a tower of quiet strength and the quintessential hostess, always prepared to entertain whoever dropped by. They loved to travel. First there were road trips and camping with the two girls and then winter holidays. Hawaii was a favourite location as was spending time with friends and family in Florida, Texas, Arizona, California and Mexico. The trips to Australia, New Zealand, Bali and Hong Kong satisfied their desire for more exotic adventure and just a year ago, Goldie sailed through the Panama Canal.

Goldie was an avid sports fan. She loved hockey and could tell you the name of all the players on the teams. She curled and spent many winter weekends at bonspiels. However, her passion was football and the Saskatchewan Rough Riders. She liked her team to win, but it was just as important to play a good game.

Mom played a good game. We will remember her wonderful pies, her interest in birds, idyllic days at Sandy Lake, the good-natured ribbing of her sons-in-law, the enormous pride in her daughters and the accomplishments of her grandchildren. She will remain in our hearts forever.

Left to cherish her memory are two daughters, Denise (David Koss) and Wanda (Fred Seeley); grandchildren, Vance, Shane, and Lisa; brothers, Doug, Wallace, Kelvin (Helen) and Ron (Carol); sister Laura; sisters-in-law, Clara and Betty; and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Wally of forty-nine years; parents, Ethyl and William; brother Bruce; and sisters, Etta, Olga, Alma and Velma.

A Celebration of Goldie’s Life will be held at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Fish Creek Chapel (14441 Bannister Road S.E., Calgary) on Saturday, September 4, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made directly to Cancer Care Manitoba Foundation, 675 McDermot Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0V9. Our special thanks and deepest gratitude goes to the staff of the Rockyview Hospital and the Southwood Hospice for their compassionate care during Mom’s brief stay.

Condolence Messages

Dear Denise and Wanda: Will always remember Aunt Goldie with love. She was always gracious and welcoming. Please accept my regrets for the memorial on Sept 4th. My prayers are with you both and your families. Love, Nancy

Dear Family of Goldie:
We go back to the Flin Flon days. Wally hired me at CIBC in 1976 and Goldie gave both my girls their first needles when she worked at the Health Unit in Flin Flon. We came to Brandon in 1985 and once again connected with Wally and Goldie. Such wonderful memories. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.

Deepest sympathy on the passing of your Mother. We were raised with the Hunter family in Mortlach and have many happy memories. She was a very special lady! As my husband Fergy and I had a scarf business we looked forward to our semi-annual visits with Goldie in Brandon. She had a marvelous sense of humour (as did all the family!) and was loved by everyone. Kindest regards to all the family. Sincerely, Irene Ferguson, Mary Bennett, Joan Schwinghamer and families

Wanda, Denise and family. We were sorry to hear of Aunt Goldie’s passing. Just remember – she is still with you in your thoughts, memories and in the stories you share. Sorry we will not be able to be at the service but our thoughts will be with you.
Terry & Alieta
Vernon & Tanis
Neil, Keri, Jaden & Reghan

Dear Denise and Wanda, and your families,
We send our deepest sympathies to you all.
Dear Goldie was such a good friend and neighbour and we miss the good times we shared, the laughs and the “wine- times”.
You girls seemed like family as we heard of your activities and shared your ups and downs with her, and you three grandchildren were her pride and joy. Goldie shared with us all your accomplishments and adventures. So we share your sad time, celebrate those good memories, and we send you our love and hugs,
Ray and Pat Tole

So sorry to hear of Goldie’s passing. I will truly miss the monthly phone calls Goldie and I shared, catching up on all news of the month. I will miss her greatly. She will always be remembered. Sorry I can’t make it to the service on Saturday. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you.